Full Text of Annual Policies and Programmes for the Fiscal Year 2007/2008

The Rt. Honourable Speaker,1. I am pleased to have this opportunity to present the Policies and Programmes of the Government of Nepal for the Fiscal Year 2007/2008 to this august Legislature-Parliament in the capacity of the Prime Minister of the Coalition Government of the eight political parties.

2. Having accomplished such historic tasks as the brining to an end of over a decade long armed conflict, promulgating the Interim Constitution on the basis of negotiations and consensus and forming an Interim Government, today we are forging ahead for the election to the Constituent Assembly. On this occasion, first of all, I would like to offer my heartfelt tributes to all those martyrs, known and unknown, who attained martyrdom in the course of establishing Loktantra (democracy). Likewise, I wish speedy recovery to all those distinguished individuals who, having sustained injuries in this connection, are now recuperating.

3. I would also like to express the commitment that, while remaining active for the preservation of national independence, unity, integrity and dignity as well as for the promotion of the national interests and prestige, the Government shall move ahead with consensus on major national issues for the institutionalization of the universally accepted democratic values and ideals including competitive multiparty democratic system of governance, civil liberties, fundamental rights, human rights, press freedom and concept of the rule of law.

4. The Constituent Assembly polls slated for November this year is expected to make a major contribution to the institutional development of Loktantra (Democracy) that we attained by the sacrifice of the people through the historic people's movement and struggle. This election shall put an end to the old era and usher Nepal into a new beginning.

Mr. Speaker, 5. The law and order situation shall be improved significantly by way of resolving mutual differences of opinion on the basis of dialogues and negotiations. For conducting the Constituent Assembly election in a free, fair, and impartial manner, the peoples' right to cast their votes in a peaceful atmosphere, free from fear, shall be ensured. For the purpose, the commitments expressed in the understandings and agreements reached among the eight political parties shall be implemented. Violent and criminal activities shall be dealt with sternly. For the purpose of holding the Constituent Assembly election, a special work plan shall be prepared for consolidating the civil and police administrations and making them more effective.

6. Various governmental and non-governmental organizations, the civil society and the mass media shall be mobilized for the conduct of civil awareness programmes and for the protection of the right to information of all regions, genders, castes, creeds and ethnic and other community groups in connection with the Constituent Assembly election. The Election Commission shall be extended all necessary cooperation in this regard. The United Nations as well as other relevant national and international organizations shall be involved in the observation of the Constituent Assembly election.

7. A State Restructuring Commission shall be formed as soon as possible for the restructuring of the state along federal lines as per the spirit of the Interim Constitution. A task force of individuals including experts shall be formed for necessary homework for the proportional and inclusive participation of Mahesis, Dalits, indigenous communities, women, workers and peasants, the disabled and backward communities in all the organs of the state structure. A policy of making political appointments on the basis of inclusive participation shall be followed with immediate effect.

8. While implementing and complying with all agreements, accords and understandings, including the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, monitoring mechanisms shall be put in place at central and local levels for the institutionalization of sustainable peace and development

9. A relief programme shall be launched for the families of those killed and for those who sustained injuries or physical impairment as well as those displaced by the conflict and movement. A special programme for the reconstruction of the physical infrastructure and rehabilitation of those affected or displaced by the violent conflict shall be formulated and implemented with high priority, thereby creating an environment conducive for goodwill, unity, and reconciliation in the society.

Mr. Speaker10. As regards the building of a New Nepal, a common national perspective concerning the economic and social transformation of the country shall be prepared and implemented.

11. To lay the foundation of a prosperous, modern, federal, inclusive and just Nepal, a 3-year interim plan shall commence implementation from the coming fiscal year, taking stock of the recommendations of the National Development Council among others.

12. Agriculture sector is the backbone of rural economy; Agriculture is also the principal source of income of the rural people. It is not possible to improve the economic condition of the poor communities without the development of the agriculture sector. The agriculture sector shall, therefore, be commercialized and be made the main pillar of economic growth. Stress shall be given to the mobilization of capital and technology for the diversification and modernization of the agricultural products. Necessary adjustments shall be made in Agricultural Perspective Plan on the basis of the evaluation of its implementation status and subsequent arrangements be made for its effective implementation.

13. The role of the private sector in the economy shall be encouraged. The Foreign Investment Policy and the Industrial Policy shall be improved with a view to developing Nepal as a secure, attractive and investment-friendly destination. Likewise, timely improvements shall be made in the existing trade policy for developing the country's export trade as a pillar of economic growth. The concept of Special Economic Zones shall be implemented from the next fiscal year. A policy shall be followed to utilize the skill, capital and entrepreneurship of Non-Resident Nepalese (NRN) for nation building. A Small Enterprise Policy shall be formulated for the purpose of promoting small entrepreneurs. For the smooth supply of petroleum products, a price adjustment policy shall be followed and the supply situation shall be improved with the participation of the private sector. Work shall be initiated for the establishment of an Industrial Security Force for the maintenance of law and order in the industrial sector.

14. National interest should be paramount while mobilizing foreign aid. To speed up development activities, which contribute to the establishment of durable peace and meet the aspirations of the people, emphasis shall be laid on the mobilization of bilateral and multilateral assistance. A policy shall be followed for maintaining fiscal balance in the allocation of public expenditure.

15. While preserving the languages and indigenous cultures of all ethnic and other communities, a new cultural policy shall be implemented for managing the works relating to the protection and promotion of cultural traditions.

16. In order to develop Nepal into and attractive tourist destination, emphasis shall be laid on tourism infrastructure development, its diversification and promotional activities. Preliminary work shall be initiated for the development of a second international airport and other international airports of regional levels. The Nepal Airlines Corporation shall be operated in accordance with the policy of public-private partnership.

17. Necessary infrastructure shall be prepared for scientific land reform and management. Emphasis shall be given on the development of the cooperative sector. The programme for the rehabilitation of freed bonded labour shall continue. Special attention shall be paid to the economic and social advancement of agricultural labourers and the landless squatters, and a special programme shall be launched for the landless squatters.

18. Access to education shall be increased for children who have been deprived of school education. The role of local communities shall be further enhanced in the management of schools. Access of rural communities to technical education and vocational training shall be increased by collaborating with the NGOs and the private sector. In addition to rendering university education research oriented and competitive, sports programmes shall be incorporated right from the school level. Preliminary work shall be initiated for the establishment of a university related to agriculture and forestry.

19. The health sector shall be restructured on the basis of geography and population with a view to establishing primary health service as the fundamental rights of the people and making quality health service accessible to the common mass. To this end, a policy of gradual up-gradation of sub-health posts to health posts shall be adopted and some sub-health posts shall be converted into health posts during the coming fiscal year. Special programmes shall also be launched for free medical treatment to and health maintenance of the poor, helpless and marginalized groups throughout the country.

20. Necessary legal and policy reforms shall be introduced in the women, children and social welfare sectors. All kinds of social discriminations, including untouchability, based on religion, language, culture and caste shall be brought to an end. Special arrangements shall be made for the protection, promotion and development of all ethnic communities, religions, languages and cultures.21. Programmes designed for income generation, capacity enhancement and community infrastructure development shall be implemented through community mobilization aiming at those in abject poverty and those below poverty line from among the women, Dalits, Madhesis, indigenous communities and those from backward areas.

22. Emphasis shall be laid on the selection and implementation of new multipurpose projects with a view to utilizing, in the national interest, the abundant hydropower potential of the country. Rural electrification programme shall be expanded. For the development and expansion of the irrigated areas, continuity shall be given to the construction of large, medium and small irrigation projects as well as those based on new technology. Likewise, for providing year-round irrigation facilities by utilizing surface and ground water, necessary improvements and rehabilitation works shall be carried out in the irrigation systems. Participation of the local people shall be encouraged in the management of irrigation projects.

23. For the construction of physical infrastructure- the backbone of the economic development of the country-emphasis shall be laid on joint efforts of the Government, local bodies, consumer groups and the private sector. Five additional district headquarters, which have yet to be linked by road, shall be connected with the national highway network during the coming fiscal year. The construction and up-gradation of roads including the postal tracks and accessory roads in terai, the highways of mid-hills and the north-south highways shall be pursued with priority.

24. An integrated policy shall be implemented for the sustainable development and expansion of the drinking water and sanitation sector. For its timely completion, the implementation process of the Melamchi Water Supply Project shall proceed as early as possible.

Mr. Speaker25. A programme of establishing at least two public telephone booths in search in each village development committee shall be pursued by launching a special rural telecommunications expansion programme. For the development and expansion of telecommunications facilities, existing information highways (fibre optics lines) shall be fully utilized and initiatives shall be taken for the development of alternate information highways (fibre optic lines). The public broadcast and mass media, shall be made democratic, swift, reliable, professional and diversified and information and communication technology shall be developed and extended to the rural areas. Legal provisions shall be developed and extended to the rural areas. Legal provisions shall be made to ensure the right to information to the people.

26. Additional contribution shall be made to poverty reduction through sustainable management of the forest areas. For conserving bio-diversity and contributing to eco-tourism, various programmes such as community and leasehold forestry in the hilly areas and productive forestry in the terai and inner terai areas shall be launched.

27. Incorporation of environment, science and technology related issues in the national development process shall be consolidated. Information technology shall be utilized for the improvement of public sector service delivery.

28. For the consolidation of the labour and transport management, emphasis shall be given on legal and institutional reform and use of information technology. Attractive employment destinations shall be explored for the Nepalese workers and labour agreements shall be concluded with receiving countries for the protection of workers' interests. Provision of labour attaches shall be made gradually in countries where there are substantial numbers of Nepalese workers and the outreach and capacity of the Nepalese Embassies shall be enhanced in other countries. Social security programmes shall be launched in the benefit of the workers. The Government shall adopt the policy of conducting welfare programmes in the interest of the youths looking for foreign employment.

29. Necessary legal provisions shall be made in order to make arrangements for ensuring unhindered transport service along the East-West Highway and other national highways and not to allow any kind of obstruction to them.

30. Emphasis shall be given on building of infrastructure based on popular participation for resolving the problem of unemployment. The youths shall be encouraged to opt for self-employment and to engage in income generating activities through training, skill development and capacity enhancement. The coverage of the Poverty Alleviation Fund shall be expanded and additional opportunities shall be provided to the deprived families from the rural areas for income generation.

31. Special programmes shall be introduced for the development of and employment generation in the Far Western and Mid-Western Development Regions including the Karnali Area and the regions adjacent to them as well as the districts, which lag behind in respect of human development index.Mr. Speaker

32. Arrangements shall be made for running the Local Bodies on the basis of political consensus. In line with the democratic ideals, a policy of decentralization of authority, to the fullest extent possible, to the Local Bodies shall be pursued. In accordance with the norms of governance based on equity and inclusiveness, various employment and income generating programmes shall be launched for the empowerment of the acutely poor families, women, the deprived, the oppressed, Dalits, indigenous communities and ethnicities, Madhesis, the backward and marginalized and other communities residing in remote areas.

33. Punitive, preventive and promotional measures shall be adopted to make the country corruption-free and to make good governance felt. Efficiency of the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority and the Office of the Auditor General shall be enhanced.

34. The policy to respect the independence of judiciary, the rule of law and human rights shall be continued. The National Human Rights Commission shall be made more effective for the protection and promotion of human rights. Emphasis shall be given on the improvement of physical facilities for the courts.

35. The Civil Service shall be made more transparent, responsive, accountable and inclusive. Public servants shall be granted a salary increment. In order to develop the civil service as an attractive service by way of ensuring the opportunities of promotion and career development, timely improvements shall be made in the civil service laws. The Public Service Commission shall be strengthened and improvements shall be made in the examination system and evaluation methods.

36. To ensure smooth law and order situation and to make the police force capable and competent, the Nepal Police, the Armed Police Force and the National Intelligence Department shall be modernized and made well equipped.

37. A comprehensive work plan shall be formulated for the democratization of Nepali Army, an appropriate number, structure and inclusive national character shall be decided for it, and its personnel shall be trained with human rights values. At the same time, their involvement in the development and construction activities shall be increased.

38.Attention shall be paid to the appropriate management of cantonments housing the combatants of the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) and the work relating to their integration and rehabilitation shall proceed as per the recommendations of the special committee formed in accordance with the Interim Constitution.

39 A process forming a trust shall be initiated for the utilization of the properties of late King Birendra, late Queen Aishwarya and their family members in the interest of the nation. The task of nationalizing such properties as palaces, forests, parks, heritages of historical and archaeological importance etc. possessed by King Gyanendra in that capacity shall proceed with priority.

40. Diplomatic service shall be made more efficient for the effective implementation of Nepal's foreign policy, which is based on the ideals and values, enshrined in the United Nations Charter and the principles of non-alignment.

41. A policy attaching high priority to the friendship with neighbouring countries- India and China shall be pursued. Likewise, the national relations with other friendly countries shall be further deepened.

42. The Government believes that the Bhutanese refugees sheltering in the refugee camps in Eastern Nepal for more than one and a half decades now should be allowed to return to their homeland in a dignified manner and in an atmosphere free from fear. Without prejudice to their inherent right to return to their homeland, should they choose voluntarily the option of third country resettlement, the Government of Nepal shall follow a policy of accepting it as a provisional arrangement.

43. While expressing my confidence that the goodwill and cooperation of friendly countries, donor agencies and the international community for the success of the peace process, consolidation of democracy and the socio-economic development efforts of the country shall continue in future, I, on behalf of the people and the Government of Nepal, would like to thank all those who have been extending such cooperation.

Mr. Speaker44. Pursuing the culture of consensus and collaboration for resolving the differences through dialogue and negotiation is the present day reality. The Government is aware of this reality and remains effortful in meeting the demands of all kinds through dialogues. The government has appealed to everyone for putting an end to all kinds of violent acts and seeking solution to the problems at the negotiating table, and has kept the door open for dialogues. In spite of all this, violence still continues in certain parts of the country in the name of different groups. Such violent criminal activities shall not be tolerated and those responsible shall be dealt with sternly. The Government, once again, calls upon all concerned to take this seriously and seek solutions to problems through dialogues and negotiations. At the same time, for creating an environment favourable to holding the election to the Constituent Assembly, I, on behalf of the Government and on my own, make an earnest appeal to everyone not to organize any closures, transportation strikes, other strikes, lockouts, etc. that disrupt the law and order situation.

45. The best interests and prosperity of Nepal and he Nepali people depend on our unity and noble efforts. I believe the election to the Constituent Assembly shall not only resolve the manifold problems, but also does it consolidate people's power thus contributing to the framework for the creation of a new Nepal. Therefore, institutionalizing the democratic system of governance through the election to the Constituent Assembly, we all should be more active in creating an atmosphere for participation in the all-round development of the country by having mutual goodwill and understanding among all Nepalese people. I, therefore, sincerely appeal to all political parties and their sister organizations, journalists and media persons, the civil society, intellectuals, social workers, industrialists and businessmen, various occupational and professional organizations and all Nepalese sisters and brothers to contribute to the task of successfully holding the Constituent Assembly election by their positive and active participation.Jai Nepal !

Source: The Rising Nepal, July 5, 2007

Govt unveils policies, programmes : CA election high on agenda

KATHMANDU, July 4 - Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala on Wednesday presented the policy and programs of the government for the next fiscal year in the interim parliament, giving top priority to improving security required for Constituent Assembly Polls slated for November 22. Koirala, who heads the coalition that includes former rebels, said the state has given topmost priority to making the polls a success because it will end the old order and begin a new era.

Hinting that the king's days are numbered, the octogenarian leader told lawmakers that an event comes only once in an era and Nepal is going to witness that event soon. In his indirect reference to the monarch leaving the country Koirala said, "As Mahatma Gandhi said the British rulers will help Indian independence movement by feet, we are also coming close to something similar."

Koirala urged lawmakers not to expect too much from the upcoming budget. "It's rainy season, dashain festival will follow soon and election will be next, so there is no time for budget implementation but the supplementary budget to be presented later this year will offer something good to the people."

The prime minister also called upon lawmakers to be ready for drastic changes in the current socio-economic set up. "Only after socio-economic change can we feel the real revolution."

After finishing his remarks, Koirala asked his deputy in the cabinet, Peace and Reconstruction Minister Ram Chandra Poudel to read out the policy and programs of the government.

The policy document said the eight-party coalition government would take all major decisions through consensus and tackle the challenges collectively.

It said the government will give priority to dialogue as a means to settle all regional, ethnic and other social conflicts in order to create a peaceful atmosphere for polls. The government policy, however, warned of strong action to control violent and criminal activities. The policy document has also promised to enact legal provision to keep highways free from any kind of strike.

Referring to some violent activities continuing in the terai despite the government's earnest efforts to resolve the problems amicably, the document said, "Such violent criminal activities shall not be tolerated and those responsible shall be dealt with through stern action."

The government has promised to set up State Restructuring Commission as soon as possible and a separate taskforce for necessary homework for proportional share of all ethnic groups, women, madhesis, dalits and other backward sections in the state agencies.

The government also said it would implement the concept of special economic zones, revise foreign investment policy and take initiatives for setting up industrial security force to ensure safety of industrial investment and to promote export.

The policy paper also stated that the government would initiate the process of nationalizing late king Birendra's family assets and parks and reserves controlled by the Royal Palace.

Program & policy highlights

Security top priority

State restructuring commission to be formed

Taskforce for proportional share in state organs to all disadvantaged groups

Legal provisions to free movement on highways

Local bodies to be run through political consensus

Salary increment pledged for govt employees

Democratization of army and proper management of PLA cantonments

Source: The Kathmandu Post, July 4, 2007

A Historic Responsibility

Yuba Nath Lamsal

The date for the constituent assembly (CA) election has been finally announced. November 22 has been fixed for the historic occasion. Unless some unavoidable circumstances arise, people would vote to choose their representatives to write a new constitution. In other words, people, for the first time in the history of Nepal, would participate in the constitution making process, which is the best democratic process in the world.

Interim constitutionThe issue of constituent assembly election had been raised right after the 1951 political change that overthrew the century-old Rana family rule and ushered in a new era of multi-party democracy. The year 1951 not only introduced a democratic polity but also reinstated the King who had been ousted. Right after the political change, the reinstated king, Tribhuvan, in a message to the nation, had promised to hold the constituent assembly election to write a new constitution. In his message, King Tribhuvan, while proclaiming the interim constitution in 1951, had clearly stated that the interim constitution would be at work until the new constitution was written by the people's representatives through an election. However, this promise of holding the constituent assembly election slowly evaporated as the King in connivance with some political parties scuttled the political process. They, perhaps, thought that the constituent assembly election would not serve their interest. Instead of holding the constituent assembly election, the parliamentary election was held eight years after the political change in 1951. This move not only breached the promise made but also denied the people to participate in a democratic process of writing their constitution. It was the first mistake of the political parties and politicians not to push for the constituent assembly election and instead participate in the election held under the constitution given by the King.

The process of scuttling the constituent assembly election was the beginning of the conspiracy against the democratic system and people's rights. The 1959 constitution, on the basis of which the first general election was held, had made the King too powerful, which the King misused to dismiss the elected government headed by B. P. Koirala and ban the multi-party system and political parties. Had a constitution been framed by the constituent assembly, it might not have given absolute powers to the King. Thus, Nepal remained under the spectre of the King's authoritarian rule for more than 30 years under the partyless Panchayat regime.Even after the political change in 1990, the then political actors failed to visualise the situation clearly. The Nepali Congress (NC) and the United Left Front (ULF) that spearheaded the 1991 mass movement had reached a compromise with the King on three key principles. The tripartite agreement among the King, the Nepali Congress and the ULF had agreed on a constitutional monarchy, multi-party system and sovereignty of people. This put an end to the burgeoning mass uprising.

Accordingly, a constitution was written by the representatives of the Nepali Congress, ULF and the Palace, which was promulgated by the King. The parties that wrote the constitution described it as the best constitution in South Asia. The constitution did have some salient features, which must be appreciated. The constitution in principles accepted the sovereignty of the people for the first time in the history of Nepal. However, the fundamental flaw in the constitution was the process of its making. It was not the constitution of the people because there was no participation of the people drafting the constitution. During that period, there had been a demand from certain quarters, though feeble, for an election to a constituent assembly. However, this demand was scuttled by the Palace and the other principal political parties. Perhaps, it was the compulsion of the Nepali Congress and the ULF to opt for a quick way to promulgate the constitution as there had been repeated attempts from the Palace to sabotage the new political process. It should be mentioned here that the Palace had first constituted a constitution drafting committee without consultation with the Nepali Congress and ULF, but it was dissolved following strong opposition from the parties and the people.

Another event that needs to be mentioned here is that when the NC, ULF and King's representatives were giving a final touch to the draft of the constitution, the Palace prepared a parallel constitution, which had to be withdrawn after strong protests from the people, professional organisations and political parties. Thus, the Nepali Congress and the ULF had to opt for a quicker way to write the constitution and end the political transition. It was the necessity of the time.Thus, the debate and demand for a constituent assembly election remained unresolved, which resurfaced during Jana Andolan II. The constituent assembly election was the main agenda of the Maoists. Other political parties, namely the Nepali Congress and the CPN-UML, were a bit reluctant to go for the constituent assembly election as they were not sure of its outcome. Before the 12-point agreement reached between the Seven-Party Alliance (SPA)and the Maoists, the political equation was different. The King had imposed his absolute regime, summarily crushing the fundamental rights of the people and party activities. On the other hand, the Maoists were waging an armed insurgency. The seven political parties had been attacked from both sides. Despite that, the seven-political parties continued their agitation for democracy and human rights.

The situation and political equation changed after the seven-party alliance and the Maoists signed the 12-point agreement. This agreement is a watershed in Nepal's political development. Until then, the constituent assembly was the agenda of the Maoists alone. After the agreement, it became a national agenda as the seven political parties changed their earlier stance on the constituent assembly. At the same time, the Maoists agreed to suspend their armed offensive and join the peaceful democratic mainstream. On the basis of these two main principles, Jana Andolan II was launched, which was led by the SPA and backed by the Maoists. The people's movement eventually forced the King to bow down, restored democratic system and initiated a new political process in the country. Law and orderThus, the constituent assembly election is a national necessity, which must be held on schedule. We cannot and should not doubt over the intention of the government and the eight-party alliance in holding the election. But announcing the election date alone does not mean it will be held in time and in a free and fair manner. There are elements trying to sabotage this process. These elements must be checked, for which greater unity and solidarity of the eight parties and active mobilisation of the people are highly necessary. For a free, fair and peaceful election, law and order must be perfect. In the absence of security, people cannot exercise their voting rights freely. The present law and order situation is definitely not satisfactory. It must be improved, and the people need to be well informed and educated on the election process and its significance. Only then people can freely participate in the election process.

Source: The Rising Nepal, July 4, 2007

Action, action

Successive governments have formed too many commissions and committees to look into the long-ailing public corporations (PEs) and suggest measures for turning them into cost-effective or profitable ventures. But not much concrete action has been taken to that end. If all those reports were put together, they would fill many shelves. The latest report, an interim one, has come from the five-month-old Corporation Reform Suggestions Committee headed by former industry secretary Dr Bhola Chalise. Unsurprisingly, it has concluded that most of the PEs are in an unenviable state. It has categorised them as bad and very bad, and added that both the privatisation and reform process for the PEs have stalled. Therefore, it has recommended the formation of a corporation reform commission to adopt policy for reform. Though the existing privatisation committee has representation from the political parties and the private sector, little has come of it.

The justification for this commission and for reform, according to the report, comes from the belief that in the present fluid political atmosphere, full-scale privatisation cannot move forward. As the interim government represents eight parties with different views on how to pull the PEs out of red, a consensus on the PEs’ outright privatisation may indeed be difficult to achieve at this juncture. However, even the Maoists may not be averse to the idea of starting the process of selling the shares to the general public. The symptoms of the disease are more or less common to all PEs, and the disease was diagnosed long ago. What is really needed now is not more committees or commissions, but concrete remedial action to bring the ailing PEs back to health. In this context, the great majority of the corporations have no option but to privatise. The government and bureaucrats, who cannot run the ministries and departments properly, cannot be expected to run commercial, industrial or financial enterprises professionally.

In the past, many reform measures were announced to revitalise the PEs but none worked. It is therefore hard to believe that any new reform measure without changing their ownership structure will now be effective at turning the PEs around. One or two governments also sought to put vigour into the PEs by hiring their chief executives on performance contracts, but that came to almost nothing. Poor performance of the PEs has a lot to do with the failure to exact accountability. For instance, government bureaucrats who occupy important positions as chairmen or members of the boards of the PEs or members of recruitment committees are not held accountable for their performance there. There has not been a consensus among the political parties either on exactly what to do with the PEs. Any government that came to power lacked clear vision and willpower to introduce far-reaching reforms. It treated the PEs as employment mills. The interim government can no longer afford to waste time on commissions or reports. The need of the hour is action.

Source: The Himalayan Times, July 5, 2007

Get it on

Home Minister Krishna Prasad Sitaula urged the people and the institutions concerned to initiate a social campaign against drug abuse and illicit trafficking on the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, June 26. The minister opined that since law alone would not ensure effective control over drug abuse and illegal trade in humans, the society at large should be involved in this cause. He also said a national policy should be formulated after appropriate debate and discussion with all the stakeholders. Sitaula is right in one thing: that a positive impact can only be generated if a nationwide campaign is undertaken with active participation of the citizens’ groups. Such a campaign must also involve people from the grassroots.

However, success of any social awareness campaign is contingent upon the depth of government’s commitment. Because legal protection is the most important instrument to check social ills, the state’s role becomes all the more crucial. If the government enforced stringent measures to check drug abuse and illicit trafficking, things would improve drastically. According to official figures, there are still around 70 thousand drug addicts in the country and around 55 per cent of them are HIV/AIDS victims. Some introspection is certainly warranted to find out as to why past government policies in this regard failed to become effective and why NGO-led programmes have proved by and large redundant in spite of the huge foreign assistance for over 15 years now.

Source: The Himalayan Times, June 28, 2007

Nepal Maoists opposed to diplomatic appointments

Kathmandu, June 29 : Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPN-M) has rejected the ambassadorial appointments proposed by the Nepal Government.Maoists say the appointments were proposed by the seven coalition parties before their induction into the interim Government.The seven parties had set aside Australia, France, South Korea and Denmark for Maoists to name their ambassadorial nominees.The Maoists have demanded that they should be given at least one out of the four "A-category" of nations - the US, Russia, China or India.CP Gajurel, chief of the foreign cell of the Maoists, said the list has to be approved by all eight parties.

According to the second amendment in the interim Constitution, ambassadorial nominees, besides the justices of the Supreme Court, must go through a parliamentary hearing before appointment.The special parliamentary committee on Thursday refused to proceed with the hearing on the list of recommended names after lawmakers of the CPN-M and People's Front Nepal expressed strong reservations over the procedure through which the names were selected.The committee asked the government to come up with a consensual list endorsed by the eight parties.

The Ministry for Foreign Affairs on Tuesday had submitted a list of 14 nominees to the parliament secretariat for hearing."We will not let the hearing proceed as there is no Maoist nod in the proposed list", Maoists chief whip Dina Nath Sharma, was quoted as saying by a local daily.Among the Nepal ambassadors nominated by the Government are - Nepali Congress leader Shailaja Acharya for India, Prime Minister's foreign affairs advisor Dr. Suresh Chalise for the US, UML leader Tanka Karki for China, former Foreign Secretary Murari Raj Sharma for the UK and Parliament Secretariat General Secretary Surya Kiran Gurung for Russia.

Source: Malaysia Sun, June 29, 2007

Nepal budget to cut Gyanendra's funds

KATHMANDU: A year after his fall from power, Gyanendra's fortunes continue to decline with the new budget set to drastically reduce the allowances of the palace. On the other hand, the Maoists' red star is touching new heights with chief Prachanda readying for his maiden trip abroad. On Saturday, the 51-year-old rebel chief heads for Switzerland for a week-long sojourn when he will interact with Swiss government representatives, intellectuals and members of the public.

The rebel leader's interaction with European officials comes after ex-US president and Nobel peace laureate Jimmy Carter met them in Kathmandu and urged the US to engage them in dialogue. The Maoists' diplomatic blitzkrieg in the West comes after Gyanendra's overtures abroad failed. During his 15-month regime, Gyanendra was snubbed by US president George Bush, which resulted in his not attending the UN General Assembly in New York while Nelson Mandela pleaded other engagements and declined to meet him in South Africa. A fresh blow will befall the palace on July 13, when finance minister Ram Sharan Mahat announces the budget for 2007-08. A local daily, Annapurna Post, on Thursday carried an interview with the minister, quoting him as saying that the new budget will allocate just about NRS 30 million for the royal family. Last year, the palace was allocated about NRS 210 million, substantially down from the nearly NRS 6600 million that Gyanendra spent during his own reign.

The Maoists and the Marxist-Leninists had been putting pressure on the government to reduce the royal allowances in the new budget, pointing out that according to the new constitution, promulgated in January, Gyanendra has no official role and therefore, should not have allowances too. The budgetary allocation is meant for “administrative” costs - which means paying the palace staff, maintenance and power and water bills. The palace has been treating the cuts with disdain. So far, it hasn't given the government an account of its properties, so that they can come under the tax bracket.

Source: The Times of India, June 30, 2007

Dissatisfied groups : Multilateral talks for consensus

Shailendra Kumar Upadhyay

The Constituent Assembly (CA) polls have been scheduled for November 22. The Election Commission has also determined the dates for various procedures to be adopted to hold the elections in November. However, there is still considerable doubt if the elections can be held in a peaceful atmosphere.After a decade-long Maoist insurgency, it was hoped that all issues would be resolved through dialogue and other peaceful means. However, guns have not fallen silent in the Tarai and the threat of violence in the Hills looms large as the government has failed to address the dissent among various ethnic groups.While the minister in charge of dialogue with dissenting factions has engaged in a series of meetings, they have so far been inconclusive. The threat of more militant movements has been issued by those dissatisfied with the slow pace of the government to address their demands.

Meanwhile, the Maoists’ demand to ban the Madhesi Janaadhikar Forum and the reciprocal MJF demand for the ouster of the Maoists from the government (and for a ban on YCL) further complicate the matter.Imposition of a ban on any political group only accelerates the clandestine work of the banned entity. Moreover, imposition of a ban on any entity cannot be regarded as democratic, particularly after the success of the Jana Andolan II, which mandated the creation of a new Nepal — a democratic, inclusive and dynamic nation.If the elections have to be conducted in November, the government has to do a lot of work to promote and sustain peace in the country. The emphasis of former US president Jimmy Carter on maintaining law and order has to be taken seriously.

Also, in order to increase trust in the government’s intent, the government ought to change its tactics with respect to talks with dissenting parties. An atmosphere must be created in which instead of agreement between two parties, a general agreement emerges between all stakeholders.Looking at our own experience, we find that rigidity on the part of any negotiator is bound to boomerang. When the Maoists were invited for talks for the first time during Deuba’s premiership, the dialogue failed as the government was not ready to discuss the need for a constituent assembly. The same story was repeated during the talks under Lokendra Bahadur Chand and Surya Bahadur Thapa; but the main cause of failure on both occasions was the overshadowing of civil government by the security forces.

The King gave his ear only to the security forces and ignored the political entities, thus torpedoing the dialogue.Today again the peace process hinges on the issue of electoral process. Indigenous ethnic groups, Tarai residents and Dalits are demanding proportional representation in the CA. The government, for its part, is adamant on mixed electoral system. Along with the electoral procedure, the demand is to spell out the details of the new state structure.Though there is a common agreement to adopt a federal system, the composition of the new administrative units is still a sensitive matter. Then arises the question of what type of authority and control would be bestowed on the new units. The general demand of Madhesis as well as various ethnic groups has been the creation of new administrative units on the basis of language and ethnicity.

But the chief government negotiator emphasises how the demand to create states, provinces or districts on the basis of ethnicity will be disastrous. A negotiator has every right to emphasise his point of view, but it is not necessary that the negotiator publicly contradicts and condemns the opinion of others. As long as the government sticks to its own view and the negotiator to his narrow partisan views, there is no hope for a fair dialogue. Its success depends upon flexibility shown with an interest in finding a common stand on important and sensitive issues.The experience of the ongoing process of dialogue has proved that as long as the dialogue remains strictly bilateral, it will exclude the point of view of others who are not a party to the bilateral talks.

Hence there should be a common platform for the discussion of the needs of all the dissenting factions. A political conference for comprehensive discussion of all issues before the stakeholders is the only way to arrive at a common consensus.So, the question of banning any party or group has to be sidelined completely in the greater interest and all dissenting entities ought to be brought together through a political conference which could have open-ended agendas, thus easing the long procedure of constitution-making by the CA. The directives adopted by the political conference would be incorporated in the constitution and so the period of constitution making would be short and smooth. New Nepal cannot be built on old prescriptions. New thought process and courage are needed to build a prosperous Nepal.Upadhyay is ex-foreign minister

Source: The Himalayan Times, June 26, 2007

Now For The CA Polls

Prem N. Kakkar

THE confusion and uncertainty regarding the constituent assembly (CA) election has ended with the government announcing November 22 this year as the date for holding it. It took a lot of exercise to finally announce the date. This came about after consultations among the leaders of the eight political parties. Though there was some delay in announcing the date, things are now expected to move in high gear.Awareness It is now for all the political parties to visit different parts of the country to create awareness about the importance of the constituent assembly election.

The constituent assembly will draft a new all-inclusive democratic constitution to take the country forward in the mission of creating political stability and emphasising the supremacy of the people.Though the CA polls were scheduled for this month, it could not materialise for various reasons, including lack of time to prepare for the exercise. The Election Commission (EC), too, had requested more time. Now there is adequate time to prepare for the election. However, some election laws have to be approved by the legislature parliament. If this is done, then everything will be set for the polls.

As the election is a new exercise for the country, the political parties must do the needful to make the people aware about the CA polls and its significance. Unity among the eight parties is also of great significance. Though the eight political parties are united at the moment, they will be contesting each other for the CA polls. Though the political parties will be rivals in the CA election, till then unity has to be there to safeguard the achievements that have been made in the past one year. If there are any differences, then they must be resolved through talks.

If this is not done, then the elements that do not want the CA polls will conspire against the gains that have been made.It is also important that the political leaders speak more cautiously instead of blaming a leader or party for anything that goes wrong. Of course, it is still a learning process as we are moving in a new direction.An important development is that talks with the agitating groups are continuing so that a conducive environment can be created for holding the election within the specified timeframe. Everyone realises that the CA polls will bring about radical changes in the political landscape of the country.

Once the election is held in a free, fair and impartial manner, it will be the CA members who will have enormous responsibilities on their shoulders. It is also clear that the CA members can take any decision through a simple majority. In fact, the success of the CA polls calls for the commitment of all the political parties. Now it is time to gear up for the polls, and the coming few months will be crucial.The first meeting of the constituent assembly will decide the fate of the monarchy, so it is unnecessary to dwell on the issue at the moment.

But there are some who are making it an issue at the present time. Even the amendment effected in the interim statute is clear on the point. So, instead of making it an issue, all the parties and leaders should focus on the CA polls and co-operate in maintaining law and order in the country. Only this will create the environment to hold the polls in a peaceful manner. On this Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala is committed and has even said that it is his responsibility. But co-operation from all should be forthcoming for the objective to take concrete shape.

Mass participation

For the new exercise that the country is embarking on, there must be a sustained campaign to generate awareness among the people about the election. This will provide the inputs so that massive participation of the people in the election is possible. This is needed to make the polls a grand success.

Adjust fuel prices

The interim government is shamelessly watching the country being hit by the petroleum shortage. It is aware of the constant loss being incurred by the Nepal Oil Corporation. But it has neither found any solution to the crisis nor has it attempted to adjust the petroleum prices so that the country's economy would have breathed a sigh of relief. Perhaps, the government intends to trigger a crisis of petroleum products, especially petrol so that consumers will realize and demand for the hike of petroleum prices. That the government has heavily subsidized the petroleum products needs no explanation for the consumers. However, the fear is that any hike in petroleum prices will trigger a chain reaction. Then again, how long will the government afford such "irregular" supply of petroleum products that is causing adverse effect on the country's economy? Has it given any thought to the country's economy?

A couple of years ago, the government had hiked the petroleum prices to adjust with the prices of crude oil being sold in the international market. The Maoists and others made hue and cry forcing the government to roll back the prices instantly. Ultimately, the country's economy had to pay the price for the roll back. Any decision on the hiking of petroleum prices again would have earned public wrath. Last month, the prime minister met Indian ambassador to Nepal to express his inability to clear the dues owed to Indian Oil Company. He literally begged to ensure uninterrupted supply of petroleum products citing that the country is undergoing a conflict transformation. NOC has to pay 4.5 billion rupees to IOC as the latter has stopped issuing fuel on credit. On the flipside, NOC has constantly run into loss of over 230 million rupees every month.

The import-sale disparity has caused a great stress on the country's economy. The country can no longer afford such irregular supply of oil. NOC imports 1200 kiloliters of fuel per day. And the country needs at least 2000 kiloliters of fuel to meet its daily demand. The problem will not be solved unless the government hikes the petroleum prices bringing them at par with the import prices. But it must deduct some tax imposed on the import of petroleum products to boost the economic activity and prevent untoward reaction. And dues totaling 4.5 billion rupees to be paid to IOC should be cleared to bring in the required quantity of fuel. Any reluctance on the part of the government to adjust prices and ensure "uninterrupted" supply of fuel will cost country's economy dear.

Source: The Kathmandu Post, June 28, 2007

Bandarmude

The members of the eight party alliance, the general public, the international community, and everybody who is concerned about the deteriorating situation in Nepal have gone hoarse demanding that Maoists respect the rule of law and stop taking the law into their own hands. Instead of abating the spree of violence and highhandedness, the Maoists have been emboldened by the apathy and ineptitude of the government to maintain the security situation in the country. The height of highhandedness has been exposed recently when the Maoists' youth wing Young Communist League (YCL) threatened to kill the people who were injured in the worst-ever killing of innocent people by the Maoists during the insurgency, at Bandarmude of Madi Chitwan on June 6, 2005 in an orchestrated landmine blast: 39 people were killed and 72 were injured.

The threat to Madi victims came for their nine-point demand and also for the dispute about the memorial to be erected. The chairman of the Victims Committee Mukti Neupane, vice chairman Krishna Adhikari and two members Sudeep Niure and Shyam Bista have been threatened with death by Maoist cadres for their strong voice against the Maoists, and the demand for compensation and medical treatment among others. The issue of mentioning the Maoists, as being responsible for the incident, in the plaque of the memorial that is being planned to be erected at the blast site has also created a rift between blast victims and local Maoist leaders. The Maoists, as reported, are creating the scene just to avoid mention of their party's name as the culprits for the blast. The cause of the blast is a crucial issue, so without mentioning the name of the perpetrators, there would be no point erecting a memorial.

The Maoists could have utilized Bandarmude as an example of their changed attitude. Instead, they used the issue to prove that the party has not given up threats and violence to terrorize people and suppress voices against them. The YCL cadres have even threatened victims not to contact journalists, which is an example of their unchanged attitude. Even CPN-UML general secretary Madhav Nepal -- who has been talking of a left alliance -- has been compelled to mention that YCL atrocities against hapless people are actually worse than reported. Nepal has come to the conclusion after visiting different districts. And we believe he is right. It is high time Maoists took the complaints against them seriously, and changed their attitude and behavior. The top leadership is turning a deaf ear to the complaints because they think otherwise the party dissenters would win over the violence-loving cadres. However, the Post strongly believes that if they can convince the cadres to behave well, they could become popular and would be able to erase the negative image of their past.

Source: The Kathmandu Post, June 25, 2007

Nepal vis-a-vis Asia-Pacific security

Bhaskar Koirala

The conclusion in Singapore of the annual International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Asia Security Summit (or Shangri-La Dialogue) on June 3, which witnessed the largest ever gathering of defence and foreign ministers, plus chiefs of defence staff and others, affords an opportunity for Nepal to examine its role and prospects in the broader scheme of Asiansecurity and defence dynamics.It is a matter of regret that Nepal has diverted its attention from larger events in international politics by focusing on petty internal rivalries. The peace process is truly simple if the principle actors bear in mind that Nepal very realistically has the potential to be a fairly high-profile Asian state with the capability of exerting a modestly benign influence on the maintenance of overall peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

As a first step, Nepal must participate in the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore next year in order to take stock of the critical issues and to assimilate these into its foreign policy.From Asia-Pacific perspective, the most profound weakness in Nepal’s strategy has been a narrow vision focused too closely on India. What is not understood is that an absence of a more diverse Nepali foreign policy is not only detrimental to Nepal, but equally to India as well. Geography or geographic constraints do not necessarily define freedom of action for any state. Nepal must play its cards astutely and devise an appropriate policy that places Nepal within the context of Asia more broadly.In his address to the Security Summit, Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong laid out the over-arching strategic environment in Asia focusing on the state of relations between major powers and over-riding regional concerns.

One important observation made by him was that the US, China, Japan, and India “set the parameters for long-term cooperation and competition among the regional countries” in the Asia Pacific.In Nepal’s context, it is not yet clear how these four major powers’ intentions and activities are converging or diverging with respect to their particular interests. Is it undeniable that a Nepal which has spun out of control is strategically not suitable for any of the powers concerned. A mountainous terrain amenable to guerrilla warfare and a fairly substantial Muslim population are among the factors that must militate against any serious outsideintentions to destabilise this Himalayan state. Moreover, as Nepal shares long and porous borders with both India and China, the economic and political repercussions of a deeply unstable political milieu in Nepal will no doubt be widespread and even detrimental to the region.

In terms of China-Nepal relations and the latter serving as a possible conduit for China in South Asia, it is important to highlight PM Loong’s remarks that “what the Chinese are saying to their own people gives some insight into their thinking.” It appears that Nepal’s strategic interests and imperatives in more expansive relations with China will pose unnecessary challenges to Indian interests.Nepal within the context of Asia-Pacific security thus essentially means that Nepal’s foreign policy must be sufficiently ‘entangled’ with the greatest number of other states toensure equidistance, neutrality and stable security environment.

Source: The Himalayan Times, June 14, 2007

Plea For CA polls

Chief of the United Mission in Nepal (UNMIN), Ian Martin pointed out the fact that the election to the constituent assembly should be held to establish political stability in the country. Speaking at an interaction with media persons held at Kathmandu ,the other day, the chief of the UN Mission in Nepal maintained that the conducive environment for polls will have to be created to conduct polls in a free and fair manner. Referring to the activities of the Young Communist League (YCL) , the head of the UN mission in Nepal asserted that the League's actions should not exceed the limits prescribed by law. The League should cooperate with the law enforcing agencies as a group of law abiding citizens. This alone would contribute in keeping law and order in the country.

Informing the media about the second phase verification of the PLA combatants lodged in different cantonments , he made it clear that the verification would be carried out to undertake examination and scrutiny strictly, and those who did not meet the criteria should be sent out of the camps. As the international community is all for stable and consistent peace building efforts, the support extended from all quarters including the UN to the cause of democracy and peace in Nepal is very instrumental. This has been one of the causative factors , among others, to accrue positive results for democratization and peace building in the country.

What should not go unmentioned is the establishment of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human rights in Nepal for the last two years. This has been at the frontline to monitor the abuses of civil and political rights in the country . Moreover, the initiative for commencing the second phase arms and combatants verification has been relevant and important. This goes in line with the concurrent efforts and preparation carried out for the election to the constituent assembly. As the present political dispensation has been working to arrive at settlement of the outstanding issues through dialogue, the commitment of the UN, as highlighted by Ian Martin, to extend cooperation to accelerate momentum for peace building is meaningful.

Source: The Rising Nepal, June 14, 2007

Tasks before Nepal leadership

Tushar Charan

After reducing the King to a virtual non-entity the next and crucial phase of the democratic movement in Nepal is an election to elect the constituent assembly. When the election commission in Nepal expressed its inability to hold the elections on June 20, as agreed to by major parties, the Maoists, who had agreed to give up their 10-year-old violent struggle for a Republic, reacted angrily. They suspected the wily King of continuing to manipulate internal developments as the country also witnessed more bloodshed, this time in the name of ethnic violence in the Terai plains. The dreaded possibility of a return to the old days of violence loomed large.

So, it must be a big relief for the Nepalese that the seven ‘mainstream’ political parties and the Maoists, as also the Election Commission, all have now agreed that the polls should be held by November this year. The Prime Minister, Girija Prasad Koirala, has suggested November 26, but all the parties have to give their consent for the date.

India too must be relieved because unrest in Nepal affects this country more directly. India will be watching the post-poll scene in Nepal with more interest. New Delhi was believed to be against the abolition of the monarchy in Nepal but later it adopted a ‘neutral’ stance on that vital issue. How the new set of rulers in Nepal eventually shape their policy towards India, often an unjust target of Nepalese politicians, will become clear only after the polls.

From the start the Maoists protestations against ‘delaying’ the polls looked unreasonable because a poll conducted in a hurry (about two months when June 20 was suggested) would not have looked free and fair and, thus, lacked credibility. A poll is not conducted merely on the strength of the political will but it also requires completion of certain technical pre-requisites, including the all-important job of an up-to-date voters’ list, probably last revised more than eight years ago. And the country needs a modicum of peace too for the polls to be a meaningful exercise.

The underlying causes for the unrest among a section of the Nepalese have not been addressed. The plains people, mostly people of Indian origin, want a better deal. Also more representatives in Parliament for their region. Ethnic violence has rocked Nepal for weeks and new armed groups have surfaced. At the last count nine insurgent groups have become active, though many are off-shoots of the Maoist campaign.

It is quite possible that in the next four or five months those who are now running the affairs of Nepal would be able to keep the country peaceful, at least in comparative terms, so that the polls in November are conducted under ‘normal’ circumstances. A factor that needs to be watched in the run up to the polls is the ability of the new ruling class to coexist. The Maoists, still struggling to get rid of their fondness for the gun, violence and strong-armed tactics, and the motley crowd in the seven party alliance (SPA), a group of political parties with a record of both inter-and intra-party feuds, often talk and act like adversaries.

A problem in the SPA is that many of its leaders are too old and too steeped in the tradition of bad politics to encourage optimism. The Maoists have proved to be more forward looking as they have given representation to the sections that have remained neglected in Nepal for long. About a third of Maoists members of the interim parliament are women and the Maoists have also nominated many Dalits as members of the national assembly.

This record would have been more impressive had the Maoists shown some keenness to accommodate the Madhesis, the plains people of Indian origin. More so since they were first to support the Maoists even before they became a nation-wide phenomenon. The fact is that even the top most Maoist leader, Prachanda, has used abusive terms for these disfranchised people.

The seven or eight key players who decide Nepal’s destiny these days also have to be more clear about their goals and the means to achieve them. The Maoists have been showing an unjustified anxiety over the issue of the fate of the monarchy; the SAP seems quite content with the status quo.

If some of the recent Maoist rhetoric is to be believed their main purpose in giving up arms that brought an end to the insurgency that had claimed 13,000 lives in 10 years is to banish the king to some jungle from where he cannot return. Some comrades are not averse to the idea of doing something more drastic. But the Maoists roadmap, or priorities, after the end of the 240-year-old institution of monarchy is not clear. The Maoists have to discipline their armed cadre or run the risk of taking Nepal back to the bloody days.

King Gyanendra has to be blamed most for the curtains down on the monarchy. He greedily usurped all powers because of his personal disdain for politicians and he showed no hesitation in donning the role of an autocrat at a time when a popular movement against his rule was building up. He drew his strength from the loyal army forgetting that the army is more likely to back the ‘powerful’ rather than the totally ‘powerless’ as he well might become very soon. However, it will be a bigger mistake if the politicians who have laid exclusive claim to ruling Nepal do not draw some lessons from the fate of King Gyanendra.

The prime minister today seems to enjoy all the powers that the King had and that can be very dangerous in a country which is yet to evolve strong democratic institutions. Nepal cannot walk further if large sections remain alienated, without some of the fundamental rights. Above all, the problem of poverty and development has to be tackled on an urgent basis.

Tasks like these should leave no room for petty quarrels among politicians and the urge to reach for the gun by some of those who are calling the shots today. The constituent assembly has its task cut when it drafts a new constitution to declare Nepal is a Republic.

Source: Asian Tribune, June 2, 2007

Path of construction

I n the past few days, consultations among the leaders of major constituents of the eight-party alliance (EPA) have taken an upswing on how best to carry out the mandate of Jana Andolan-2. The focus of all these has been to further strengthen the EPA unity. This is an encouraging sign. Recent tentative attempts at forging Left unity have not gathered steam. The idea of forming a front of the centrist and rightist forces has proved to be a non-starter, as it would go against the spirit of Jana Andolan 2. The two-hour-long meeting on Sunday between PM Girija Prasad Koirala and Maoist chairman Prachanda ended with a renewed emphasis on EPA unity, besides helping end the bitterness in their ties that came out in the open over Sitaram Prasain, accused of irregularities amounting to Rs.280 million, when the Young Communist League (YCL) took him into custody on June 3 and then handed him over to the police the next day.

The idea of Left unity was floated because the Leftists suspected the Koirala-led Nepali Congress of trying to retain monarchy in some form. There was also talk of a Republican Front, fed by similar suspicions. This is not the time for the EPA constituents to go in different directions. The best is to make the alliance even stronger and more united. For this, they need to go head over heels to evolve a consensus on the remaining important contentious issues. On Sunday, Koirala reportedly told Prachanda that the NC would like to institutionalise a republic through the constituent assembly (CA) polls. He also urged Prachanda, with some justification, not to press too hard on other issues but to concentrate on the CA polls, the nation’s paramount agenda at this point in time.

If they meant what they said, it is likely to form a sound basis for a new understanding between the two sides in an atmosphere otherwise charged with mutual distrust after the CA polls, slated for this June, were postponed. In such a situation, the Maoists may not press hard their case for a republic through a two-thirds parliamentary majority — a provision to that effect is being incorporated in the Interim Constitution (IC)— provided that the monarchy stays clear of all serious controversies. The recent hurdles to political momentum were caused by the indifference to implementing the various agreements in full. The two leaders covered a wide range of topics — such as release of prisoners, disclosing the status of the disappeared people, relief and treatment for the conflict victims, return of the seized property, cantonment management and allowance for the PLA combatants, and YCL activities. The talks were billed ‘positive’. It was no less important that they reached an understanding that mudslinging should be stopped and discussions allowed to resolve any differences. Any major rift in the EPA is bound to embolden the forces of regression. The EPA should stay united, at least until the CA polls and promulgation of a new statute, to carry out the people’s mandate. The constituents need to expand their area of agreement, particularly on vital and contentious issues like the monarchy.

Source: The Himalayan Times, June 12, 2007

Crucial Parley

PRIME Minister Girija Prasad Koirala and the CPN (Maoist) leader Prachanda held consultations Sunday and established rapport to address key impending issues. The leaders were able to sort out differences and agreed to facilitate the process to ensure passage of laws and regulations pertaining to election to constituent assembly. The two leaders held similarity of views on the need for endorsement of the amendment bill to the interim constitution and banish obstacles, if any, for the polls to the constituent assembly. The parley between the key leaders of the Nepali politics yielded two immediate outcomes that is calling off the indefinite Bandh in Kapilvastu district called by the Maoists and early start of the second phase verification process of the PLA combatants lodged in different cantonment in the country. These developments have dawned fresh hopes in the otherwise stalled process of political negotiation and stalemate creating problems and despair in the country. The leaders recognized the fact that the impending political issues can be resolved only through dialogue and negotiation.

Last week, political and civil society leaders had also asked the parties to hold consultations to break the deadlock . Needless to say that the creation of the legal framework for polls to constituent assembly has been overdue and the subject needs to be taken up sooner .A small delay in the enactment of legal regime would create barriers to the election to the constituent assembly. It should be taken into consideration that apex level talks held at different times have been able to create fresh grounds to resolve difficult issues. What should not be overlooked also is the fact that the peace and democracy building process in the country is very crucial, and this can taken to new level only through mutual understanding and reciprocity. More important in today's context has been the need to assure an atmosphere of peace and harmony so that people can discuss issues relating to the constituent assembly in a free and fearless environment. It is expected that talks held between the Prime Minister and the Maoist leader will make important contribution to address the issues that have stood on the way of achieving new speed in peace building process

Source: The Rising Nepal, June 12, 2007

Political bond

The NC-Maoist tête-à-tête the other day reverberated a good message across the country. The meeting yielded some tangible result as it patched up the mounting political differences between the two major political parties and cleared Maoists' misgivings over the southern neighbor, India. The one-time bonhomie between the Nepali Congress and the CPN (Maoist) had turned sour immediately after the former rebels joined the interim government. The war of words between the prime minister and a Maoist minister culminated in badmouth. The prime minister dubbed the Maoists' youth wing, Young Communist League (YCL) a criminal group. And Maoist chairman Prachanda retorted by terming the prime minister as a protector of criminals.

In the face of vitriolic attack due to YCL's excesses, Prachanda got on his nerve's end when media reported that the Southern neighbor advised visiting UML general secretary Madhav Kumar Nepal to forge a strong alliance with the Nepali Congress. Edgy Prachanda vented venom against India and accused it of interfering in Nepal's internal affairs. The NC-Maoist differences hit the roadblock raising apprehension over the holding of Constituent Assembly (CA) polls -- the only hope to institutionalize democratic republic. Although the ruling eight-party alliance has agreed to defer the CA polls, it is possible only if the parties work in unison. The NC-Maoists have agreed not to make public remarks over any dispute between them. Prime Minister Koirala and Maoist chairman Prachanda decided to settle their scores through a dialogue. The Post commends the sagacity expressed by both the leaders. It helps create a healthy relationship between the parties. The understanding between the top leaders will also discipline the YCL cadres making them more responsible towards democracy and human rights. YCL can play a crucial role—both negative and positive—in holding the free and fair CA polls.

Similar understanding is a must among all the ruling coalition partners to fulfill the aspirations of the people expressed during the Jana Aandolan-II. Any crack between the parties within the eight-party coalition will provide enough space for reactionary forces to play hell with the peace process. As Prime Minister Koirala during the meeting reiterated his commitment to institutionalize democratic republic through the CA polls, all the political parties should work to hold the CA polls in November. Any political differences within the eight-party alliance will only jeopardize the holding of CA polls. Such differences may push the country again into the hands of regressive forces.

Source: The Kathmandu Post, June 12, 2007

"M" Factor in the Crisis of Present Nepal

Rajat KC

Once, present Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala mentioned that words starting with "M" were the most hated by him. M, as he indicated, stands for Marxists, Leninists, Mashal (factions of communism in Nepal) and Mandale. He added Maoists to the list just after they started an armed revolution more then a decade ago. Now the time has changed. As the Seven Party Alliance (SPA) and the Maoists formed an alliance, the Maoists became the closest ally of the PM Koirala. In present-day Nepal, M-6 is becoming the most substantial of factors, namely, because all of the key actors start with "M": Maoists, Monarchy, Military, Moriarty, Mukharjee and Martin. This article will highlight the desired objective of the Maoists, and relate it to the end objectives of the remaining M-5, with regard to the ongoing political crisis in Nepal.

The Maoists are the main element in M-6, due to the the country's suffering from a decade-long, ruinous, bloody insurgency which took the lives of more than 15,000 people. During Janaandolan 2 (Second popular movement), they shook hands with the SPA, which provided them with unexpected success; as a result, they are now in the interim parliament and government of Nepal. Even though the Maoists are in government, they are acting like an aggressive/hostile opposition force and still creating violence and vandalism throughout the country. Since their ultimate aim is to establish a totalitarian communist regime in Nepal, they are keeping everyone in confusion as to their end goal and taking benefits out of the fluid situation.

The military is the true instrument of national power in Nepal. The Nepalese Army is the nation's sole military force, raised by King Prithivi Narayan Shah during his unification campaign. Now, as per the peace accord signed between the government and the Maoists, the National Army is restricted to the barracks, doing just routine duties. During the insurgency period, after receiving a serious blow from the Nepalese Army, the Maoists realized that they could not achieve their end objective by military means. They were forced to change their strategy and created a political alliance with the SPA. Surprisingly, that alliance succeeded in achieving political victory, which brought the Maoists into their present position. Since the Maoists are in government and parliament, they now retain the "key" instruments of the nation's power, including the military, along with their private rebel force. They have clearly understood that, without destabilizing the structure of the Nepalese Army (by penetrating into the National army), their ultimate aim would not be realized. As per the present constitutional arrangement, the Nepalese Army cannot be mobilized unless the present government (including the Maoists) gives an executive order. Yet the Maoists fear the army, probably due to their past impression. Therefore, the Maoists now want to legitimize their rebel force by giving it national status, so that they can be easily inculcated in the Nepalese Army. They are also trying to establish a personal relationship with senior military officers to influence them into their party's interest. They have even appointed one of the retired army generals into legislative parliament in their quota.

Another part of the M factor in Nepal is the Monarchy. The Nepalese Monarchy is more than 238 years old. Modern Nepal was unified by King Prithvi Narayan Shah the Great and, ever since, Nepal has been ruled by the Shah dynasty. Out of 238 years, the Rana family ruled Nepal as an autocratic ruler (Family rule of Premiership) for 104 years (1846 to 1951 AD), while the Monarchy remained a mere figure head of the state during that period. For approximately 100 years, however, the country was indirectly ruled by Shah Kings. The actual period of rule by the Shah Dynasty was from 1961 to 1991. After the restoration of the multi-party democracy in 1991, the Nepalese Monarchy became constitutional. However, democratic Nepal could not move forward smoothly even after a decade of the restoration. The aimless war staged by the Maoists commenced during this period. As a result, the country reached a virtually failing stage. The Monarchy tried to bring derailed democracy on track, but this move could not be accelerated. As a result, the Maoists and SPA created an alliance orchestrated by India, which forced the Monarchy to hand over power to the SPA. At present, the institution of the Monarchy is at a critical stage. In fact, the Maoists have nothing to justify their bloody war at the cost of 15,000 lives. Therefore, in order to justify their so-called people's war and take credit for present achievement, they are targeting the institution of the Monarchy with revolutionary slogans. They are launching widespread propaganda against the Monarchy to portray the latter's negative image in the national and international arenas. They know that, as long as the Monarchy exists in Nepal, their ultimate dream cannot materialize. Hence, they intensify their campaign to eliminate the Monarchy prior to the election for the constituent assembly.

The other three M factors are the international figures, Mukharjee, Moriarty and Martin. Shivshanker Mukharjee is the Indian Ambassador to Nepal. The Maoists are now utilizing a political platform masterminded by India. They now have easy access to Indian points of contact by having frequent meetings with Ambassador Mukharjee. They believe that they can deceive India by pretending that they are committed to democracy by hiding their hidden objectives. However, they might have forgotten that India will carry them on their shoulders so long as their national interest is served. The Maoists must have also overlooked that Mr. Mukharjee and his country will never compromise at the cost of their national interest for any other reason. On the other hand, as India is known as the largest democracy in the world, they cannot support the Maoists if they deviate from actual democratic norms and values. It seems that India is not satisfied with the activities of the Maoists and its sister organizations.

Moriarty is the U.S. Ambassador to Nepal. James F. Moriarty (U.S. policy) is one of the biggest hurdles to the Maoists' desired objectives. They are dead scared of the name "Moriarty". He is a major factor in protecting democracy in Nepal from the threat of the Maoist takeover. No other elements in the nation in the present context are seen as effective as Moriarty in taking a stand against the Maoists' hegemony. America, as a sole global power, has taken a strong stand in safeguarding democracy and peace in Nepal. The Maoists are creating numerous conspiracies against Moriarty to demoralize him with allegations of imperialist and violator of diplomatic norms. They even mobilized the YCL to attack him. Interestingly, all the attacks and allegations staged by the Maoists have backfired and damaged their image.

Last, but not least, is Martin . Mr. Ian Martin is Special Representative of Security General (SRSG) of the United Nations, head of the ongoing UNMIN. Despite so much hegemonic behavior of the Maoists, he seems very flexible and easy-going while dealing with them. His strict and honest endeavor will certainly play a vital role in achieving the desired objective of a comprehensive peace agreement towards a lasting peace and democracy in Nepal.

Nepal is heading towards the election for the constituent assembly. Present understanding between the Eight Party Alliance (SPA-M) indicates that they are willing to hold an election in November '07, but it is still unknown when that will actually take place. If all democratic forces, along with the M-5 (excluding the Maoists), play a positive role in the ongoing peace process, peace and democracy is not far in the distance and the end objectives of the Maoists will remain a dream. Under these circumstances, the M-6 (including the Maoists) will have no other option than to contribute honestly towards the success of the peace process.

All-inclusive democracy is the only way to achieve lasting peace in Nepal. If any internal actors were to attempt to corner or eliminate each other, and the two major foreign powers didn't honestly play crucial roles, Nepal would likely face another, seemingly, endless, bloody civil war.

Source: OpEdNews.com, June 10, 2007

Late elections to help regressive forces regroup

Aditi Phadnis

Interview with Madhav Kumar Nepal, General Secretary, Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML)

When do you see elections being held in Nepal?

November this year. There are many opinions on this. Some say the reasons that prompted postponement from June to November may be cited as an excuse to postpone the elections again. They say action should be taken first against those who prevented elections from being held in June. I agree that mistakes were made but I don’t believe we need to take action against the prime minister. Elections must be held in November because there is no other way. We currently have an interim parliament with an interim constitution. Questions could be raised about the nature of an essentially nominated body that has no authority, constitutionality or legality. And when people doubt the credibility quotient of the government, it could pave the way for spent, regressive forces to resurface and consolidate. That is why my firm belief is that the interim period of transition should be as short as possible and we must have elections no later than November 23.

What is the schedule going to be like ? Will the elections be held all over Nepal on one day?

The Cabinet will decide that in consultation with the Election Commission but my feeling is that the elections cannot be held on one day. Last time, the Election Commission said it needed 110 days to hold the elections. More than five months are left. Parliament has to clear Bills on how the elections will be held. How will a proportional representation system be put in operation? Will it be a closed or open list? Will the names on the lists be final or will it be possible to change them? These are all political questions.

But my gut feeling is we can hold the elections in November. I don’t understand why the prime minister is unable to maintain law and order.

Constitutionally, this government is the most powerful in the history of Nepal. They enjoy enormous public support without having faced an election. Yet it is the weakest government in the history of Nepal. I asked the prime minister: ‘Why do you feel so weak? Why don’t you take the initiative?’

What did he say?

He said ‘I will. I will not tolerate this any more’. Some say the Nepali Congress would like to see the UML and the Maoists fight so that they can gain the advantage in the elections. But this is only what people are saying. This is not the case.

When you met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, did he tell you that you have to work with the Nepali Congress?

No, he said, ‘You must strengthen the seven-party alliance, unity must be maintained among democratic forces’. Not that we should work with the Nepali Congress. He said, ‘You have the Maoists on board now. That is a big advantage’.

What was the main theme of your talks with other Indian leaders?

We met all the leaders – Atalji, Soniaji, Dr Singh, and of course, our colleagues from the Left parties in India. All of them had the same view, that the decision of the Nepali people, no matter what, is acceptable to India. They voiced apprehension about the elections but insisted they should not be delayed. They wanted to know what Nepal wanted from India.

Did they appear to be satisfied about reports from Kathmandu about the activities of the Young Communist League (YCL)?

There are some concerns about the YCL. We have told them (the Maoists) that if you have two sets of structures in a party you will begin to have problems. We told them: ‘Do you remember the raja (king) and his mandale (lumpen groups that claimed they were acting on authority of the king)? This dual structure will create problems for you and act as a pressure group from inside. These young men and women will get involved in extortion, they will get into buses and demand money from working people… after all, gun represents power. When one has a gun, one has to have the means to keep it. The YCL could become a weakness in the movement.

Recently, a vigilante group caught hold of an individual who has charges of embezzlement of public funds and beat him up. If such events take place, the difference between forces of the state and private armies blur…

I know about the incident. Anyone who has embezzled public money must be punished. The state must act.

We hear there is a division among the Maoists: Some are for the elections but there are some who oppose it....

There is apprehension that the YCL in camps is telling grassroot level workers that they have not surrendered all their weapons, that the people should vote for them. But ultimately, the loss is the Maoists’. Intimidation will only tarnish their image. We can already see people rising up in rebellion against this in Bardia, in Dang.

There are concerns in India over Terai

Like issues relating to dalits, women, jana jatis, Terai should also be considered by the government. Communal harmony is crucial. We know the palace is behind these events. Religious fundamentalist forces are behind the events in Terai.

But there are some genuine people also. However, violent action should not be supported. The king might try to come back if there is violence. We have envisaged a system of democratic federalism. If some ethnic group has a grievance, they should raise it so that it it be addressed constitutionally. Those whose aim is to wage an armed struggle in Terai should desist. No one should give them sympathy and support.

Are they using Indian territory?

Yes, there are some reports that they are.

How can you be sure that the polls will not be disrupted by state and non-state forces?

There is an understanding among eight parties that the Constitution needs to be revised to protect Nepal if the King tries to disrupt the struggle for a republic. So, according to an amendment that is coming in Parliament, if the King tries to disrupt, a simple majority of the current Parliament present and voting can turn Nepal into a republic. As for other forces, if any other forces take the same path, they will be resisted. Each of the eight political parties are clear about this.

Source: Business Standard, June 11, 2007

DIPLOMATS' CONCERN:Shocking Insecurity

SANJAYA DHAKAL

Although they have joined the government, the Maoists have not been able to rein in their overzealous activists as was demonstrated by the pelting of stones at the vehicle carrying US ambassador James Moriarty in Jhapa recently. Unfortunately for the country, the normally reticent diplomats have now issued a strong statement demanding security. Such actions by diplomats give a very negative message and damage the credibility of whole Nepal not only that of Maoists.

The Maoists are peeved at the continual inclusion of their party in the terrorist list by the US Department of State despite their becoming a part of Nepal government. But, wrongfully and dangerously, they have equated that move by the US government with the individual ambassador. Ambassador Moriarty, who is wrapping up his term in Nepal in few weeks' time, has been drawing huge criticisms from the Maoists because of his candid remarks about the path Nepal is heading towards. He has always been in the forefront pointing out the dangers of Maoists' joining mainstream politics without making the strategic decision to abandon violence. This, he has been advocating not as his personal position but as that of the US government.
By pelting stones at Moriarty, therefore, the Maoists have not only hit at the individual but the representative of a sovereign country. What followed was a rare censure by the whole of diplomatic corps expressing displeasure at the lack of security. Last week, 15 diplomatic missions based in Nepal issued joint concerns about insecurity to them and have demanded safe environment for them to function. The diplomatic corps of Nepal have demanded that security and safe movement of foreign diplomats must be assured.

"The Diplomatic Corps of Nepal is deeply concerned by an upsurge in recent weeks of security incidents that have threatened foreign diplomats or otherwise impeded their work in the country. We condemn any and all attempts to harm, threaten, or interfere with foreign diplomats working in Nepal," a statement issued by Diplomatic Corps of Nepal said. In the strongly-worded statement, the diplomatic corps have termed as unacceptable the "targeting or threatening of diplomats in Nepal on their countries' official business." The statement urges all political groups and activists to respect customary norms and reject violence or intimidation. Significantly, it also reminds the government "of its role to ensure security and safety for diplomats."

The statement was issued on behalf of Embassies of the United States of America, France, Germany, India, Japan, Malaysia, Pakistan, Denmark, Israel , Australia, South Korea, Thailand, the United Kingdom, Bangladesh and Finland. Immediately, the government was compelled to respond to the diplomats' concerns. Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala apologized on behalf of the government during his meeting with visiting US Assistant Secretary of State Barry Lowenkron. Home Ministry's spokesperson Baman Prasad Neupane said the government is ready to tighten security arrangements if diplomatic missions call for the same.

On the other hand, Maoist leaders are yet to take responsibility for their behavior. A senior Maoist leader Suresh Ale Magar publicly said that Nepali people had pelted stones at Moriarty because he started making rounds of army barracks to hatch conspiracy. Speaking at a program in Charikot, he accused Moriarty of visiting army barracks and conspiring against Nepali people. Ale Magar was recently denied a visa to travel to the United States to attend a program organized by the UN. As such, the concerns expressed by diplomatic community could damage the government's efforts to hold credible polls in a free, fair and peaceful environment.

Source: Spotlight, June 10, 2007